Common Septic Issues We See in Muskegon County

Every area has its own challenges when it comes to septic systems — and Muskegon County is no exception. Between changing seasons, soil conditions, and water tables, we see some septic issues more often than others.

Here are the most common problems we run into and what you can do to avoid them.

High water tables

Parts of Muskegon County are close to the lakeshore or have naturally high water tables. When the ground is saturated, it’s harder for your drainfield to absorb wastewater properly.

What to watch for:

• Standing water in the yard
• Slow drains during rainy seasons
• Soggy or overly green drainfield areas

How to prevent it:
Make sure gutters and sump pumps are routed away from the drainfield, and avoid using a lot of water during or right after heavy rain.

Overdue pumping

This one’s not unique to our area — but we see it a lot. Many homeowners wait too long between septic pumpings, which leads to buildup and clogs.

What to watch for:

• Toilets flushing slowly
• Gurgling sounds in your pipes
• Strong smells inside or near the tank
• Backups in the basement or lowest drains

How to prevent it:
Stick to a 3–5 year pumping schedule and give us a call if you’re not sure when your tank was last serviced.

Tree root intrusion

Trees love Muskegon’s sandy soil — and unfortunately, their roots love septic systems too. We often find roots growing into tanks or pipes, especially in older systems without root barriers.

What to watch for:

• Clogged lines
• Cracked tanks or baffles
• Sudden backups or wet spots in the yard

How to prevent it:
Keep trees and shrubs at least 20 feet from your tank and drainfield, and ask us about root-safe landscaping options.

Older systems reaching the end of their lifespan

Many septic systems in Muskegon County were installed 20–30+ years ago and are starting to show their age.

What to watch for:

• Frequent service calls
• Persistent odors or drain issues
• Structural damage or corrosion
• Signs the drainfield isn’t working

How to prevent it:
Regular inspections can help extend the life of your system — and if replacement is needed, we’ll help you plan for it.

Seasonal wear and tear

From freezing winters to rainy springs, our weather can put a lot of strain on septic systems. Shifting ground, freezing temps, and excess moisture can all lead to issues.

What to watch for:

• Cracked lids or risers
• Freezing pipes
• Slow drainage in early spring

How to prevent it:
Have your system checked annually, especially before and after winter, and avoid compacting the soil over your tank or drainfield.

Bottom line

If you live in Muskegon County, your septic system has to deal with some unique conditions. The good news? We know exactly what to look for. Whether you’re seeing signs of trouble or just want peace of mind, Schultz Septic is here to help.